The Feast of the Passover, also known simply as Passover, is one of the most significant and ancient festivals in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This event is foundational to Jewish identity and is also of profound importance in Christian theology, symbolizing redemption and foreshadowing the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Origin and Observance

The origins of the Passover are detailed in the Book of Exodus. God commanded Moses to institute the Passover as a perpetual ordinance for the Israelites. The instructions are found in Exodus 12:1-14, where God outlines the specifics of the observance. The Israelites were to select a lamb without blemish, slaughter it at twilight, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act would cause the Lord to "pass over" their houses during the final plague, the death of the firstborn in Egypt. As stated in Exodus 12:13 , "The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt."

The Passover is celebrated on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. It marks the beginning of the seven-day Feast of Unleavened Bread, during which no leavened bread is to be consumed, symbolizing the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt (Exodus 12:15-20).

Passover in the Old Testament

Throughout the Old Testament, the Passover is observed as a central religious festival. In the wilderness, the Israelites celebrated the Passover as recorded in Numbers 9:1-5. The observance was renewed under King Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 30) and later under King Josiah (2 Kings 23:21-23), emphasizing its importance in the spiritual life of Israel.

Passover in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the Passover takes on additional significance. Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), is seen as the fulfillment of the Passover lamb. The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal (Matthew 26:17-19). During this meal, Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper, or Communion, as a new covenant in His blood (Luke 22:19-20). The Apostle Paul explicitly connects Christ to the Passover in 1 Corinthians 5:7 , stating, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed."

Theological Significance

Theologically, the Passover is rich with symbolism and meaning. It represents God's deliverance and salvation, themes that resonate deeply within Christian doctrine. The blood of the Passover lamb is a type of Christ's atoning sacrifice, offering redemption and protection from the judgment of sin. The unleavened bread signifies purity and separation from sin, a call to holiness for believers.

Contemporary Observance

While the Passover is primarily a Jewish festival, its themes and symbols are embraced by Christians, particularly during the Easter season. Many Christian traditions incorporate elements of the Passover into their liturgical practices, recognizing its fulfillment in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In summary, the Feast of the Passover is a profound biblical event with enduring significance, bridging the Old and New Testaments and offering a rich tapestry of redemption, deliverance, and divine promise.